Have you been researching potential vacation destinations for this summer? Are you ready for a break from the daily routine and wanting to experience something new? If so, the Island of Hawaii may be calling your name. With affordable flights to Kona out of Pasco (via Seattle), it has never been easier for Tri-Citians to reach this island haven in the Pacific Ocean. Sweeping vistas, dense tropical rainforests, and stark volcanic lava fields converge to create a truly breathtaking landscape that will leave a bit of itself with you each visit.
Activities
The Island of Hawaii is known around the world as a tropical paradise and vacation destination. Whether you’re seeking a place to relax and rejuvenate the spirit or surf some of the largest waves on the planet, Hawaii has something for everyone to enjoy. This island is commonly referred to as “The Big Island” to differentiate itself from the others in the archipelago, and that name is apt: It is large enough to fit all the other islands combined within its shorelines, with plenty of space to spare. There are countless activities in which to indulge on the Big Island, but we’re going to highlight a few of the very best ways you can spend your time when you make your first trip to the Big Island.
Volcanoes National Park
Have you ever wanted to visit a volcano up close and personal? If so, you’re in luck. The Big Island is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The latter of which is the largest in the world by mass and volume. Its summit reaches 13,679 ft into the Hawaiian skies. With a day trip to Volcanoes National Park, you’ll get the chance to view and hike around both world-famous volcanoes. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a lava flow!
Snorkel with Manta Rays
Not to be confused with stingrays, manta rays are gentle giants of the sea that are extremely friendly toward humans. They are some of the most graceful creatures to roam the ocean and can be viewed up close in their natural habitat on the Big Island. Several Kona-based tour agencies lead small groups just offshore after the sun sets to view these magnificent rays. A bright light is shone downwards into the waters from a flotation device, which attracts plankton who use photosynthesis to convert the light into energy for themselves. These plankton in turn attract manta rays, which will dazzle you with an extraordinary ballerina-like performance just beneath you.
Stargaze at Mauna Kea
Some of the best scenic views on the Big Island can be experienced from the peak of Mauna Kea, the which reaches 13,803 ft and is permanently capped with ice. This colossal, dormant shield volcano is approximately 125 ft taller than its more massive brother, Mauna Loa, and boasts the highest point in the state of Hawaii. It is the second highest point of elevation on an island in the world, behind only Puncak Jaya in New Guinea. Mauna Kea is home to one of the most important ground-based observatories on the planet. With unparalleled clarity of the night sky, it has also become a popular tourist destination for those who want to view the galaxy around us. Tours of the observatory facilities can be arranged for small groups, and a visitor center near the summit is open to the public. Whether you go at night as part of a tour group, or during the day on your own, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Explore Hilo
Hilo is the largest settlement on the Big Island as well as one of the oldest. It is home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, a popular university which draws students from throughout the other islands and the mainland USA. Located on the east coast of the island, Hilo sits in the heart of a rainforest, starkly differentiating itself from the drier west coast. A farmer’s market is held in the center of town on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the Lili’uokalani Japanese Garden sits only a few minute drive to the east. Both attractions give Hilo a unique sense of place and are well worth a visit if you have the time.
Kona Coffee Tour
Did you know that Kona is considered to grow some of the finest coffee beans in the world? The climate and elevation of the island’s numerous coffee farms are perfect for creating a complex flavor that is cherished by coffee connoisseurs the world over. If that sounds like something you’d enjoy, you can sign up for a guided tour of one of the farms to learn more about the growth process and taste some of the delicious confections for yourself. While you’re there, pick up a bag of beans to take home with you so that you can inject a little “aloha” into your morning routine.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Hawaiian Islands, keep your eyes out for part two of this destination series coming soon!
